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Rick Gates

Rick Gates

, ’95 BSPh

Biography

Rick Gates is the Vice President of Pharmacy Operations at Walgreens, based in Deerfield, Illinois. He is responsible for all professional and operational aspects of the pharmacy business at Walgreens including operational excellence, systems, pharmacy affairs, healthcare program implementation, and immunization services across the Walgreen Company.

Gates leads a variety of teams responsible for all areas of pharmacy operations including retail, specialty, health system, and employer worksites. Their product offerings range from prescription fulfillment, adherence programs, immunizations, to point of care testing.

Gates joined Walgreens after graduating from the University of Iowa and has spent his career within community and pharmacy operations, along with health and wellness organizations. He began his extensive career serving patient care in stores and field leadership before joining Walgreens corporate. Since moving to Deerfield, he has been instrumental in implementation of innovative product offerings and operational efficiency programs. He has led stores in Western Operations and was responsible for pharmacy integration during the Duane Reade Acquisition. He most recently led a team ensuring operational enablement and execution of strategic programs at our various locations.

Gates received a BSPh from the University of Iowa. He is an active member of the American Pharmacist Association, NCPDP, NASP and the University of Iowa Alumni Association.